Do you love to bake? I do, but baking can be expensive (especially if you like to use quality ingredients). Homemade vanilla extract can be a great solution, producing delicious vanilla extract at a fraction of the cost.

There’s different opinions about DIY vanilla extract, but I am a believer that this method is effective, and also has some sustainable bonuses. If you buy B-grade beans, you’re reducing food waste. Also, with reusable bottles, you’re limiting plastic and paper waste that comes with the tiny bottles you buy at the store.

To do this, you need a bottle (I found gorgeous bottles as my local Dollar Tree, but you can even recycle ones that you have), vanilla beans, and alcohol! I used vodka for a classic vanilla extract, and actually used bourbon to make a bourbon vanilla extract. I’ve also seen suggestions to try rum for something a bit more tropical! As far as quality, I didn’t purchase top tier liquor, but also refused to buy anything in a plastic bottle!

As for beans, you can get them at the grocery store, but I have a place you will love! Slo Food Group sells ethically sourced vanilla beans at a fraction of the cost! The beans are so affordable, and they’re the perfect extract grade quality (reducing waste). I ordered a 10 pack, and the beans were still moist and just what I needed for this project.

To make your extract, split open the vanilla bean with a knife. Then, place it in the bottle, and cover it with the alcohol. That’s literally it! Turn the bottle upside down a few times, and do this once a day for as much as you can. I’ve read mixed reviews on whether this is essential or not, but it doesn’t hurt the process.

Let this sit for a minimum of a month, but 6 months to a year if you’re patient. Essentially, after a month it will be usable, but it will only get better with age. The best flavor will come in 6 months to a year. You can refill these bottles too, as these beans have a lot to give!

I gave these to everyone in my life as holiday gifts this year, and they’re going over so well! So, will you be trying the homemade vanilla extract? I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

All thoughts and opinions are my own.